Description
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy pasta bake combining tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a flavorful ranch-infused cheese sauce. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this dish features penne pasta coated in a rich cream cheese and cheddar sauce, baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken and Bacon
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup bacon crumbles
Cheese Sauce
- 6 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain well and set aside to use later.
- Make Cheese Base: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream cheese and stir continuously until it melts completely and becomes smooth.
- Create Sauce: Slowly whisk in the milk or heavy cream, maintaining constant stirring until a creamy and smooth sauce forms without lumps.
- Add Seasoning and Cheese: Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and the shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Combine Chicken and Bacon: Add the cooked shredded chicken and bacon crumbles to the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly so the meat is evenly distributed.
- Mix in Pasta: Fold the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, stirring gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and ingredients.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- To save time, use rotisserie chicken as a convenient cooked chicken option.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as peas or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking, just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if chilled.
- Ensure the penne is drained thoroughly to avoid the sauce becoming too watery.
